The Victorians were on to something. Not in their repressive society, or their corsets, but in their literature, a seething froth of feelings and ideas that brought us boldfaced names like Dickens and Wilde, Doyle and Braddon, Hardy and Eliot. There's so much richness in that period that still resonates for readers today.

Theatre is a funny business, funny both in the amusing sense and in the weird sense. Second City’s latest revue, Party Today, Panic Tomorrow, is a blunt instrument of a show that is loud, unapologetic, political and fierce. Unlike the more cerebral and brainy Everything is Great Again, the current show has a more frenzied feel about it. It’s more physical, more hard-hitting, and takes more risks. There are parts that will make you feel decidedly uncomfortable and parts that will leave you scratching your head. And I absolutely loved it. It may not be for everyone, but it was for me.

Cavalia’s Odysseo bills itself as “like no other show on earth!” Now, that’s a big claim…but it’s not wrong. If you’re not familiar with Cavalia, you probably will be soon. Like their better-known cousins Cirque de Soleil, they are a Montreal-based entertainment company that combines circus arts, live music, and film with the beauty and vigour of horses. It’s an usual combination that sometimes feels hard to pin down. Is it an athletic competition, a concert, an equestrian exhibition? I’m not sure, and I’m not sure I would even try to classify it. The bigger question is – does it work? And to answer that, I can give you a resounding yes. Whatever else Cavalia’s Odysseo is, it is undeniably full of spectacle, movement, and excitement.

The evening begins as we enter the White Big Top, Cavalia’s custom-designed venue. From a distance, the tent looks like a turreted castle straight out of a fairy tale. Inside, a wide stage is filled with a packed sand surface surrounded by trees and vines. The sand is real, the trees are not, but the effect is mysterious and lovely all the same. Stadium seating ensures that no matter where you sit, your view is unimpeded, and it’s surprisingly comfortable. It may seem odd to mention it but trust me, after a two and a half hour show, I was very grateful for those seats. Flamenco guitar was playing softly as we took our seats. I assumed it was recorded, but when the lights went down I could see musicians tucked away in the wings.

As soon as the weather warms up, Torontonians and tourists flock to ONE Restaurant’s patio. However, all year long, you can find tables filled every day and night inside the dining room. This 'see and be seen' hotspot in Yorkville has been a favourite in the city for many years. I recently attended ONE’s ten-year anniversary party, which was quite a remarkable event.

Situated in the posh Hazelton Hotel, the restaurant is a popular spot for diners looking for a chic atmosphere with fabulous food. Stop by the tree-lined, candle-lit patio if you’re looking to unwind and be taken care of while enjoying a cocktail or two.

The Charming Modernist

The Charming Modernist is a lifestyle blog for curious minds that focuses on the best of food, travel, arts and culture.

Hello and welcome to The Charming Modernist, a lifestyle blog for curious minds. My name is Alison and I enjoy sharing my love for travel, food and arts and culture with family, friends and the online community. Read more >>